Proper Use

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.

This medicine should come with a patient information insert. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

It is best to take this medicine with food at the same time each day.

Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet. It is important that you maintain a diet with restricted amounts of phenylalanine.

If you are using the powder for oral solution: Pour the contents of the packet in 4 to 8 ounces (1/2 to 1 cup) of water or apple juice. Mix thoroughly. Drink this mixture within 30 minutes. You may also add it in a small amount of food, such as applesauce or pudding before taking. You may give the mixed medicine to an infant by using an oral dosing syringe.

If you are using the tablets: You may swallow the tablets whole or mix them in 4 to 8 ounces (1/2 to 1 cup) of water or apple juice before taking. It may take a few minutes for the tablets to dissolve. To make the tablets dissolve faster, you may stir or crush them. Drink this mixture within 15 minutes. You may also crush the tablets and mix in a small amount of soft food, such as apple sauce or pudding before taking.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

For oral dosage forms (solution or tablets):

Adults and children 7 years of age and older—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The starting dose is usually 10 to 20 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day. Your doctor may adjust your dose if needed.

Children 1 month to 6 years of age—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The starting dose is usually 10 mg per kg of body weight per day. Your doctor may adjust your dose if needed.

Children younger than 1 month of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor. .

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.